Blackpool's Climbing Towers
Standing in the shadow of the famous Blackpool Tower the two 20 metre high, international standard climbing towers create a dramatic wow factor for the completely regenerated gateway to Blackpool.
The towers were built in 2005 as part of the regeneration of the central gateway.
The first official climbing of the landmark towers was done by mountaineer Alan Hinkes, the first Briton to climb the world's 14 highest peaks.
The climbs were established by Ian Vickers and Entre Prises, and walls were built by Volker Stevin.
Each face of the two towers contains climbing routes which are marked in different colours. In total there are 36 routes which are tailored for you. Grades are from French 3 to 7C+.
Slabs, vertical walls, overhanging walls - whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced rock god courses are run that should enable you to climb in a comfortable, friendly atmosphere should you require them.
The park was opened on 24 May 2006 by Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Alan Hinkes, Ian Vickers and the British Climbing team.
The park is dedicated to George Bancroft - the former leader of the Council and is Blackpool's first new major park since 1926. The park contains approximately 650 trees and 70,000 shrubs and plants.
On 24 - 25th May 2008 the British Lead Climbing Championships take place on the Climbing Towers. This is one of the biggest dates in The British Mountaineering Council's (BMC) calendar and the country's top climbers are expected to attend. Over the weekend the best of British and international competitors will head for the climbing towers at George Bancroft Park to compete.
During the Season the Climbing Towers are open:
Monday - 6.00pm to 9.00pmTuesday - 6.00pm to 9.00pm
Wednesday - closed
Thursday - 6.00pm to 9.00pm
Friday - closed
Saturday - 10.30am to 4.30pm
Sunday - 10.30am to 4.30pm
Please note all times are subject to change and seasonal variation.
All routes on the climbing towers are floodlit and trained first-aider on the premises.
Equipment is included in the climbing sessions. If you are an experienced climber and want to climb by yourself, then you will need 50 metre minimum rope, up to 14 quick drawers, belay device and 3-4 slings. Please note that Blackpool Climbing Towers do not hire ropes.
Climbing is a unique sport and delivers exciting rewards, both physically and mentally. If you are adventurous and want to push yourself in new ways, learning to climb is the challenge you need. If you are bored of the television or just fancy trying something different while on holiday, climbing can keep you fit, strong and exercise your mind.
Next to the Blackpool Climbing Towers is a substantial bouldering area (3 metres x 20 metres), made from granite, grit and lime stone brought from all over the world (China, Scotland, Norway) with a wide range of grades for both novices and stronger climbers.
You do not have to be a competent climber to use the bouldering area, but an adult must supervise anyone under the age of 14. It is free to use.
